Sports: Nangkiew Irat pulled off a stunning upset today, bringing down two-time Shillong Premier League champions Mawlai with a commanding 2-0 victory at the SSA Stadium in Polo. This historic win, which came courtesy of goals from Himanshu Patil (14’) and Ronaldkydon L Nonglait (68’), not only shattered Mawlai’s near-perfect record since their return to the SPL but also catapulted Nangkiew Irat to the top of the provisional standings.
The match was a captivating display of contrasting strategies. Mawlai, known for their relentless, fast-paced attack, were met with a deliberate, calculated approach from Nangkiew Irat. The latter’s strategy of slowing the game down from the outset seemed to unsettle their formidable opponents. The frustration was palpable, and it was compounded by two critical errors that led to both goals. The first came after a pause for treatment; Mawlai’s defence was caught napping on the restart, allowing Jefferson Pakyntein to deliver a pinpoint cross for Himanshu to head home. The second goal was a gift from a Mawlai substitute, Dameki Khongstia, whose errant pass was seized upon by Nangkiew Irat. Raikutshisha Buam’s swift diagonal ball found Ronaldkydon, who clinically fired a low left-footer past the Mawlai goalkeeper, Lambhamiki Lamare.
Despite being two goals down, Mawlai’s spirit remained unbroken, but their attacking prowess was blunted by a resolute Nangkiew Irat defence. Anchored by the experienced duo of Dibinroy Nongspung—a former Mawlai player—and Restom Khriam, the backline stood like a rock, frustrating every attempt. While Mawlai did create some notable chances, including a header by Balajied Syiemlieh and a strong shot from Ricky Chyne, Nangkiew Irat’s custodian, Surjay Kumar Pariyar, was up to the task, making crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. Mawlai, perhaps feeling the void left by Donlad Diengdoh’s departure to Langsning, lacked their usual physical and attacking edge. In contrast, Nangkiew Irat, who finished a respectable fourth last season, showcased their strengthened squad with the addition of local talents like Dibinroy and Raikutshisha, alongside the prolific Himanshu Patil, a recent top scorer from the Maharashtra Senior Men’s Football League. The SPL action continues with defending champions Shillong Lajong set to face Malki later today.
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